asdfasdf wrote:
I need to turn the nozzle of a rocket engine...

here is a picture...

http://www.stevepinker.com/North-Ame...9081&k=Bbmvkvg

or

http://tinyurl.com/kbwbk2g


It is going to be about 3" diameter and 4" long. It won't be
incredibly detailed but the ribs should show. It will be
hollowed out a bit but the wall thickness will be much greater
than the picture. I need a wood that will turn easy without
tear out and should be cheap. The grain is not important as
it will be painted. Any recommendations?

I don't know what part of the world you will be looking for wood in,
or how much turning you have done. If -I- were going to do this, I
would look in my wood stash, get a block of sassafras and whip it out.
It is free (here), turns easily and sands beautifully.

--
 GW Ross 

 A little inaccuracy saves tons of 
 explanation.